Sherborne Connect

Four Years of Sherborne Connect

Sherborne Connect launched four years ago on 1 December 2017. We now have 3,535 registered users worldwide, representing almost 40% of our total network.

Thanks to your enthusiasm for the platform, we had the highest percentage sign up rate of any of the 1,000 plus schools and universities worldwide for whom Graduway hosts this platform, in both 2019 and 2020.

Memorably, at a lunch after the launch, OSS Secretary, John Harden, announced that he would “ eat his hat” if we ever got 1,000 members. Well, he ate his first hat in the following month, and we are looking forward to the fourth.

Transforming the work of the OSS Office. Before we had the platform, we would see five or six young OS wanting to make use of the OS Careers Network a month. Now that 74% of users have indicated that they are willing to help with careers advice, support and mentoring, the number of OS seeking and receiving help has risen exponentially. Help can range from a ‘Zoom ’ discussion about the industry/profession they are interested in through the platform to help with CVs and interview techniques. Or from networking opportunities with colleagues and friends, to actual live work experience.

An invaluable tool during lockdown. Our Business Breakfasts transferred seamlessly online and talks by Luke Baker (c 91) and Tony Quainton (d 52) are on the Resource page on the platform.

In November 2020 as part of National Schools Giving Week, we launched Talent and Time Week and over 150 OS and parents volunteered to help enhance the current provision for the boys in both the academic and careers spheres.

We are hosting a variety of online groups: year groups- ahead of reunions, industry groups, regional groups and an LGBTQ+ group, where OS can message each other, post photos, share memories and organise events. All our events are advertised on the platform.

The Jobs Board has recovered post lockdown and is now back to its buoyant self and several OS have found employment through it. The Business Directory launched during the first lockdown is also proving very popular.

Looking forward… In January we are planning to launch a mentoring campaign to help our undergraduate OS and recent graduates. If you would like to take part, please log on to the platform and check that your profile is up to date and check the “Willing to Help ” box, or if you would like help “Looking for Help ” box.

Please do continue to support Sherborne Connect, so that John won’t go hungry!